Oak Brook Community Celebrates 51st Winterfest

Sean Hayden, of Hinsdale, indulges his daughters at the Winterfest Sweets table during last year's celebration. Concessions, hot chocolate and hot wine will be available for purchase during Oak Brook Park District's Winterfest.Jessica Cannaday

Jessica Cannaday

Winterfest is a long-standing tradition in Oak Brook that breaks up the long, cold months before spring, and Oak Brook residents hold it near and dear to their hearts. This year's celebration of winter will take place on Friday, January 31 from 5:30-8:30pm at Oak Brook Park District's Central Park, 1450 Forest Gate Road, and the main feature of the event is once again the community sponsored ice rink.

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The event will be held on a Friday evening this year to showcase the unique lighting at the ice rink and thanks to Darien Sportsplex, skate rental is free. "The weather looks as though it's going to cooperate, and so far, the ice has been perfect," says Cannaday.

Oak Brook Park District's Winterfest is an ideal opportunity for families to explore all the indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities the snowy season has to offer. Participants are encouraged to bring their sleds and try out the new park district sled hill, strap on snow shoes, enjoy a carriage ride through Central Park, and roast marshmallows by the bonfires. To warm up, there will be live music, crafts, fun wintertime snacks, and a coloring contest inside Central Park West.

Also new this year, the park district will be offering hot spiced wine for adults to purchase.

For more information, and a schedule of events, please visit www.obparks.org/winterfest.